› Our people celebrate Diwali

Yesterday, October 24, marked Diwali, the festival of lights, which is one of the major festivals celebrated by our Asian/Indian community, including many of our own kaimahi (staff) here at Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury. Clinical Records Officer Manoj Koyal says for him this festival is a beautiful time to celebrate with loved ones. “The glittering lights, diyas (a type of small lamp) and lanterns fill the sky as this festival is celebrated all over the country and the world.” Also known as Deepawali, this festival is an auspicious occasion that is celebrated with much fervour, cheer and joy. Diwali symbolises positive and happy spirits, he says. “People dress up in beautiful, traditional attire and look their absolute best while donning accessories or jewellery. There are delicious meals and sweets that make Diwali even more delightful. The fresh aroma of sweets is mouthwatering, and people exchange gifts.” Payroll Officer Ankita Jain says Diwali is a festival of love and light, which brings with it hope for luck and prosperity, either monetary or health-wise. “As we all know, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury has a lot of people who have changed countries and found this place to be their home. However their roots and ancestral emotional attachment are still back where they came from. So recognising this festival in our workplace is important to make everyone feel at home here”. Celebrating Diwali begins with cleaning your environment so that was the first thing she did. “Then it is all about enjoying and celebrating with friends and family with amazing food and thanking the gods for what we have. We do light our house with oil lamps to signify new hope”. To celebrate Diwali here at Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury we have a poster you can print out and display, along with a screensaver. For a chance to win a wee Diwali prize, print out the Diwali Colouring Competition and send it back to ManaTaurite@cdhb.health.nz or send a photo of you, your team or whānau celebrating Diwali. For more information about local Diwali celebrations here in Ōtautahi Christchurch visit the Indian Social and Cultural Club here: www.facebook. com/ISCCNZ or www.indiansinnz.com/diwalicelebrations-new-zealand/

Payroll Officer Ankita Jain Clinical Records Officer Manoj Koyak and his colleagues dressed up to enjoy Diwal Clinical Records Officer Manoj Koyak lighting diyas for Diwali